Archbishop Dolan Urges Caution in Face of Storm

Archbishop Dolan Urges Caution in Face of Storm

If you live on the East Coast (or even if you don't), you're probably aware that Hurricane Irene is expected to travel up the I-95 corridor this weekend. New York City already has announced that its public transportation will shut down beginning at noon on Saturday. This combination of dangerous weather conditions and a lack of mass transit (/Mass transit?) has some Catholics worried about how they'll fulfill their Sunday obligation.

Archbishop Timothy Dolan of New York has tried to put minds at ease. In a statement today he urged the faithful to put safety first:

Advertisement

“With all of our friends and neighbors here in the community we love, we in the Catholic family are united in prayer for protection from the impending storm, and eager to offer refuge and help to those who may be endangered or harmed.

Catholics take Sunday mass very seriously, but the Church never asks us to risk our health or safety to get to church on the Lord’s Day. Please be careful! Do not take any chance with your safety and health if things get dangerous.

Our extensive network of parishes, schools, Catholic Charities, health care institutions, and residential facilities are cooperating fully with our public safety officials, and stand ready to assist in all efforts of outreach and help.”

+Timothy M. Dolan Archbishop of New York

Our prayers go out for the safety of all in the path of the storm this weekend.

Like most public writers, I was used to getting notes that were crude, crazy or even mildly threatening. Normally, I would say a quick prayer for these obviously troubled people and get on with my day. This time it felt different, precisely because the author wasn’t insulting or obviously deranged.

Help America keep bringing you stories like this

As a frequent reader of our website, you know how important America’s voice is in the conversation about the church and the world. We can't do it without you—America Media relies on generous support from our readers. Please visit our membership page to learn how you can invest in our work by subscribing to the magazine or making a donation.

If you’re already a subscriber or donor, thank you! If you login and register your print subscription number with your account, you’ll have unlimited access to the website. Please contact us at members@americamedia.org with any questions.